Researchers push TPU operating temperatures

22/07/2011

TenasiTech Pty Ltd has launched a nano-composite thermoplastic polyurethane system for use in seals to increase the operating time of pumps and lower costs for the end user. The company which is based in Brisbane, Australia but with manufacturing capability in the US, Germany and Australia, has produced nano-composites exhibiting excellent improvements in mechanical strength, creep resistance, compressive set and barrier properties. Creep resistance improvements are up by 67%, and compression set gains are up by 45%. The nano-polyurethanes are also performing significantly better after exposure to elevated temperatures for extended periods. These dramatic improvements in materials performance are made with no trade-off in flexibility. “The performance gains from our nano-additives are directly relevant to seals, giving their users the potential of longer Mean Time Between Failure and the possibility of pushing operating temperature ratings further for polyurethanes, which is a historical weakness for this class of polymer,” Richard Marshall, Managing Director, said in a news release. “TenasiTech is a rare nanotechnology in that it is able to produce material at industrial scale, is competitively priced and fits within the existing polymer supply chain.” “We have partners in the northern hemisphere for applications other than seals, but we are now actively seeking a partner to develop product in this exciting market,” said Mr Marshall.